Big Sandy Reservoir Near Farson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Sandy Dike Eden Dike 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sandy Reservoir is a man-made lake located near Farson, Wyoming.
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Summary
It was created in 1963 as part of a Bureau of Reclamation project to provide irrigation water to the surrounding agricultural areas. The reservoir has a capacity of 73,000 acre-feet and is fed by the Big Sandy River and snowmelt from the Wind River Range. The primary surface flow providers are the Big Sandy River and Cottonwood Creek. The snowpack providers are the Wind River Range and the Wyoming Range. Agriculture is the primary user of the water from Big Sandy Reservoir, with over 28,000 acres irrigated annually. The reservoir also provides opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.
Reservoir Details
| Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change | 0.0% |
| Percent of Normal | None% |
| Minimum |
6,725.18 ft
2021-09-03 |
| Maximum |
6,763.27 ft
2024-06-10 |
| Average | 6,745 ft |
| Dam_Height | 85 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 69 |
| Drainage_Area | 439 |
| Year_Completed | 1951 |
| Nid_Storage | 54400 |
| Structural_Height | 85 |
| River_Or_Stream | BIG SANDY CREEK |
| Foundations | Rock, Soil |
| Surface_Area | 2510 |
| Hazard_Potential | High |
| Outlet_Gates | Valve - 2 |
| Dam_Length | 2350 |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
| Nid_Height | 85 |
Seasonal Comparison
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
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